Leo J. Melerine Sr.

Leo James Melerine Sr. passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 09, 2013 at the age of 82. His final days were spent surrounded by family and friends that Leo had touched in some way throughout his very memorable life. He was the beloved husband and best friend of 59 years to Violet Salvant Melerine. Loving father of Deborah M. Lachney (Terry), Leo J. Melerine Jr. (Gwen), Joy E. Melerine (Randy Gonzales) and Tricia M. Story. Son of the late Celestine and Birdie (Bertha) Perez Melerine. Brother of the late Audrey Larrieu, Richard, Ray and Warren Melerine. Proud grandfather of Calvin Marrero III, Dana Marrero, Leo Melerine III, Randy Gonzales Jr., Nicholas Clark, Brittney Melerine, Joshua Lachney, Hunter Story, Skylar Story, Terry Lachney Jr., and Jonathan Lachney. Great grandfather of Madison Price, Gavin Gonzales, Eden Gonzales, Calvin Marrero IV, Anabella Marrero, Marissa Marrero and Brennan Clark. He is also survived and fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and especially Dr. Freddy Abi-Samra who, through his care and kindness, helped keep our Leo around a little longer. Leo was a lifelong resident of St. Bernard Parish where he served his community for many years as a fireman. He was the founder and owner of Lee-Vi's Po-Boy Restaurant and deeply dedicated to the House of Judah in Violet. He was well loved and will be forever remembered as a loving and loyal husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and a friend to many, who believed in hard work, loved to laugh, praised His Lord, and treasured his family. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Saturday, July 13th from 10:00AM – 1:00PM, followed by a funeral service in Leo's memory beginning at 1:00PM. Burial will follow in Lake Lawn Park Mausoleum in New Orleans, LA.